Wigan buy Bateman from Bulls

Wigan have signed back-rower John Bateman from Bradford for an undisclosed fee.

Bateman, 20, moves to the DW Stadium on a three-year deal, and will join his new team-mates at pre-season training later this month.

He said: “I am grateful to Wigan for giving me the opportunity to play at such a successful Club and I am looking forward to this new challenge in my career. 

“I would like to thank everyone at Bradford for allowing me this opportunity and hope I can play my part in winning silverware with the Warriors.”

Bateman made his first team debut with the Bulls back in 2011, but had an injury hit campaign in 2013.

In 2012, he captained the England academy side in Australia.

Warriors Rugby Manager Kris Radlinski added: “In John Bateman, we have a tremendous prospect. He has been tipped for the top in the game for some time and we are pleased to help him reach his potential. He is ambitious, hard- working and has a burning desire to succeed at the highest level. 

“We intend to strip him down and build him back up, educating him on preparing his body for top grade Rugby League along the way.”